Greater Manchester Police has warned everyone with a phone about a relatively new text-based scam putting people at risk.
The message comes from a scammer posing as the mobile phone owner’s son or daughter and telling them they have changed their number.
The text then goes on to ask for a sum of money, often saying they will pay it back when they can.
Greater Manchester Police shared an image of the scam and said: “People have started receiving text messages like this.
“They will then ask to lend some money from you, explaining they will pay you back when they get paid.
“Unfortunately after this you will never hear from them again and you will be out of pocket.”
Action Fraud recently revealed this convincing WhatsApp scam, which is also being sent to other messaging services on phones, has cost victims over £1.5 million this year.
Detective Chief Inspector Craig Mullish, from the City of London Police, told Action Fraud: “If you receive a message like this from a friend or family member, don’t send any money until you’ve had a chance to call them and confirm their identity.
“Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.”
